Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Three Lifesaving Steps If Clothes are Burning

If clothes catch fire they can spread very quickly, engulfing the victim in flames. Certain types of clothing, especially synthetic fabrics, may melt and stick to skin. The best way to reduce injury from the flames is to extinguish the burning fabric as quickly as possible.
To put out burning clothing, take these three steps: Stop Don't run or wave your arms. Movement will fan the flames and cause the burns to be more severe. Drop Get on the ground quickly and cover your face with your hands. Roll Try to smother the flames by rolling over and over. Pay attention to what's burning and focus on putting out that area of your body.
It's helpful to roll up into a rug or thick, nonflammable material (such as tent canvas) to help smother the flames. Don't roll into a thin blanket, sheet or plastic because you may accidentally catch that material on fire also.
Others can help you douse the flames by patting the fire with their hands or other material. Use water or a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if one is available.
As soon as the fire is out, cool the area and treat any burns. Call 911 for any burns that resulted from flaming clothing.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

2010 CPR Guidelines

After a review of the available research published over a 5 year period, the American Heart Association released its 2010 CPR Guidelines. As expected, the focus for CPR is on good quality chest compressions. Here are the differences between the 2005 and the 2010 CPR Guidelines: A-B-C is for babies; now it's C-A-B! It used to be follow your ABC's: airway, breathing and chest compressions. Now, Compressions come first, only then do you focus on Airway and Breathing. The only exception to the rule will be newborn babies, but everyone else -- whether it's infant CPR, child CPR or adult CPR -- will get chest compressions before you worry about the airway. Why did CPR change from A-B-C to C-A-B? No more looking, listening and feeling. The key to saving a cardiac arrest victim is action, not assessment. Call 911 the moment you realize the victim won't wake up and doesn't seem to be breathing right. Trust your gut. If you have to hold your cheek over the victim's mouth and carefully try to detect a puff of air, it's a pretty good bet she's not breathing very well, if at all. I have a secret to share: paramedics have been doing it this way for years. Rarely have I seen an EMT or a paramedic put her ear to a victim's nose and listen for air movement. We just get to work. Push a little harder. How deep you should push on the chest has changed for adult CPR. It was 1 1/2 to 2 inches, but now the Heart Association wants you to push at least 2 inches deep on the chest. Push a little faster. AHA changed the wording here, too. Instead of pushing on the chest at about 100 compressions per minute, AHA wants you to push at least 100 compressions per minute. At that rate, 30 compressions should take you 18 seconds. Besides the changes under the 2010 CPR Guidelines, AHA continues to emphasize some important points: Hands Only CPR. This is technically a change from the 2005 Guidelines, but AHA endorsed this form of CPR in 2008. The Heart Association still wants untrained lay rescuers to do Hands Only CPR on adult victims who collapse in front of them. My biggest problem with this campaign is what's left unsaid. What does AHA want untrained lay rescuers to do with all the other victims? In other words, what do you do with the victims that aren't adults or that didn't collapse right in front of you? AHA doesn't provide an answer, but I have a suggestion: Do Hands Only CPR, because doing something is always better than doing nothing. Recognize sudden cardiac arrest. CPR is the only treatment for sudden cardiac arrest and AHA wants you to notice when it happens. Don't stop pushing. Every interruption in chest compressions interrupts blood flow to the brain, which leads to brain death if the blood flow stops too long. It takes several chest compressions to get blood moving again. AHA wants you to keep pushing as long as you can. Push until the AED is in place and ready to analyze the heart. When it is time to do mouth to mouth, do it quick and get right back on the chest.
Source: Field JM, Hazinski MF, Sayre MR, Chameides L, Schexnayder SM, Hemphill R, Samson RA, Kattwinkel J, Berg RA, Bhanji F, Cave DM, Jauch EC, Kudenchuk PJ, Neumar RW, Peberdy MA, Perlman JM, Sinz E, Travers AH, Berg MD, Billi JE, Eigel B, Hickey RW, Kleinman ME, Link MS, Morrison LJ, O’Connor RE, Shuster M, Callaway CW, Cucchiara B, Ferguson JD, Rea TD, Vanden Hoek TL. "Part 1: executive summary: 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care." Circulation. 2010;122(suppl 3):S640–S656.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

How can I tell if someone is in anaphylactic shock?

There are two important ways to tell if someone is suffering from anaphylactic shock. First, by identifying the symptoms of anaphylactic shock. Second, by identifying the exposure to an allergen that causes anaphylactic shock.
Symptoms of Anaphylactic Shock Anaphylactic shock is primarily an allergic reaction. To identify anaphylactic shock, first look for symptoms of allergy: Itching Red, raised, blotchy skin (hives) Wheezing Anaphylactic shock happens when the victim shows signs of low blood pressure: Confusion Weakness Pale color Unconsciousness Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock often have symptoms of shortness of breath: Unable to speak more than one or two words Sitting straight up or with hands on knees Gasping for breath Pursing lips to breathe Using neck muscles to take breaths Identify the Allergen It's easier to identify anaphylactic shock if there is a known allergen. For instance, those with allergies to bee stings will usually know they've been stung. Sometimes, however, there is no known allergen and the victim is simply developing symptoms of anaphylaxis. Anyone who's had allergic reactions in the past should be aware of any symptoms -- especially if no allergen has been identified. If you don't know what it is that makes you sick, you don't know when you've been exposed. The situation can give you clues to figure out whether this is anaphylaxis. People with food allergies are more likely to have anaphylaxis while eating -- even when they don't think they're eating the food they are allergic to.
Anaphylactic Shock Treatment Once you've identified an allergic reaction, treatment depends on how bad the reaction is. Simple allergic reaction treatment includes preventing the reaction from developing into anaphylaxis by taking Benadryl. On the other hand, treatment for anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock may require epinephrine. Source: Krohmer, Jon. First Aid Manual. American College of Emergency Physicians. 2002. New York, NY.

Thursday, September 09, 2010

How long does brain activity last after cardiac arrest?

     The common medical understanding is that cardiac arrest victims become unconscious within 20 seconds of the loss of blood flow (heart stops). That's not quite the same thing as losing "all brain activity." It just means the brain is incapable of keeping you awake.      All brain activity is thought to be over by about 3-4 minutes from the moment the heart stops, which is one reason why we want to start CPR as quickly as possible. It's also why hands-only CPR is good for victims of sudden cardiac arrest. It's easy: push on the chest fast and hard while someone else calls 911.      If you're by yourself, call 911 first then start pumping. Make it quick, though. Not only does the brain stop working as it runs out of oxygen and sugar (brought to the brain by blood flow supplied by the heart), blood gets trapped in the brain until it starts flowing again. That stale blood is accumulating acids, free radical oxygen molecules and other toxins while it sits there.      As soon as you start pumping on the chest and pushing the stale blood around, you're going to bathe the brain in those toxins. The less time those toxins have to build up, the better. It's almost as important to flush those toxins out as it is to bring fresh nutrients and oxygen in. No matter how you look at it, the quicker you start CPR, the better.
Source: Safar P, Behringer W. "Brain resuscitation after cardiac arrest." Textbook of Neurointensive Care. Edited by Layon AJ, Gabrielli A, Friedman WA. Philadelphia. WB Saunders. 2003:457–498

Tuesday, August 03, 2010

Stress Relief and Relaxation - Overview

Stress is a fact of life. Although some stress is normal and even needed, too much of it can affect your quality of life and your health. There are simple things you can do to help relieve stress. Tips to relieve stress When you feel stressed, you can:
  • Soak in a warm bath.
  • Listen to soothing music.
  • Take a walk or do some other activity.
  • Meditate or pray.
  • Take a yoga class.
  • Have a massage or back rub.
  • Have a warm drink that doesn't have alcohol or caffeine.
  • You also can make some changes in your everyday habits to reduce and relieve stress.
    • Get plenty of sleep.
    • Stay connected to your family, friends, and other caring people in your life.
    • Get regular exercise. It can help you clear your mind and work off feelings of frustration and anxiety.
    • Don't drink or eat anything that has caffeine in it. Caffeine can make you feel "wound up" and more stressed.
    • Don't smoke or use tobacco. Nicotine can make you feel more anxious.
    • Don't drink alcohol. It can cause sleep problems and depression.
    From Web Md

    Sunday, April 04, 2010

    If the first rescue breath given during CPR does not make the chest rise, what should we do ?

    Opening the airway is usually done by using the head-tilt, chin-lift method. The intent is to pull the tongue off the back of the throat and let air pass unobstructed. Sometimes it's very hard to get the airway open this way, even when paramedics or EMTs are doing it. So, if air doesn't go in on the first try, tilt the head down and back up again, then try another rescue breath. Whether it works the second time or not, start pushing on the chest. It's important to get blood moving around the body. There's probably still plenty of oxygen in the bloodstream and only by pushing on the chest will that blood get to the brain and the heart. In years past, all the focus on delivering those rescue breaths no matter what meant some victims didn't get chest compressions as quickly as they should. The assumption used to be that if air didn't go in, there must be something stuck in the airway that needed to come out before anything else was done. Now we recognize how difficult it is to open the airway. It doesn't mean there's a chunk of steak in the airway just because the chest doesn't rise. Indeed, in some cases of cardiac arrest, rescuers are encouraged to skip the rescue breathing entirely and provide hands-only CPR. Only 2 breaths are necessary, whether successful or not. If they both work, great. Start chest compressions. If the first one works and the second one doesn't, start chest compressions. If both of them fail, start compressions. Regardless what happens after a second breath (or a second try), start chest compressions. So here are the important steps (assuming you've already called 911 or you're having someone else do it):
    • Head-tilt, chin-lift and try a breath.
    • Try it again.
    • Push on the chest 30 times.
    • Repeat.
    Simple.

    Wednesday, March 31, 2010

    How to Prevent Lower Back Pain

         Back pain affects about 8 out of 10 people. But there are many steps you can take to avoid it. One of the best things you can do to prevent back pain is to exercise regularly and keep your back and abdominal muscles strong. Here are some quick pointers to prevent back problems:
    • Always stretch before any strenuous physical activity (in fact it would be wise to engage in a regular stretching program like active isolated stretching, which is what I use every day)
    • Don’t slouch when standing or sitting Sit in chairs or car seats with good lumbar support
    • Switch sitting positions often and periodically walk around or gently stretch muscles to relieve tension
    • Don’t bend over without supporting your back
    • Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes
    • Sleep on your side to reduce any curve in your spine, and always sleep on a firm surface
    • Lift with your legs, keeping your back straight
    • Try to control your weight
    • If you smoke, quit; smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes the spinal discs to degenerate
    Also, to keep your spine strong, as with all bones, you need to get enough vitamin D every day.

    Wednesday, February 03, 2010

    Corticosteroids (glucocorticoids) for cancer and cancer pain

    How It Works

    Corticosteroids are strong anti-inflammatory drugs. They are used to reduce swelling that causes cancer pain.

    Corticosteroids are available as pills, syrups, injections, and intravenous (IV) solutions. The type and extent of a disease determines the exact dose and schedule of administering these drugs.

    Why It Is Used

    Corticosteroids reduce swelling (inflammation) that causes cancer pain. They are used with other drugs, such as ondansetron and aprepitant, to control and prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

    How Well It Works

    Corticosteroids work well to reduce swelling and pain caused by cancer. 1 When they are used with other drugs, such as ondansetron and aprepitant, they may control and prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. 2

    Side Effects

    Side effects are common with steroids and can include:

    • Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, or ulcers. To reduce these side effects, take your pills with a full glass of fluid and a small snack.
    • Fluid retention, causing swelling of the hands and feet.
    • Increased appetite.
    • Increased risk of infection.
    • Preexisting diabetes getting worse.
    • Menstrual period changes.
    • Changes in behavior, such as symptoms of paranoia or psychosis.
    • Muscle wasting. You may notice that it is difficult to climb stairs or rise from sitting to standing without assistance.

    Some problems may occur with long-term use. These include:

    See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

    What To Think About

    During treatment with corticosteroids, do not take any other prescription or nonprescription medicines, including herbal products, without first talking to your doctor. Many other drugs can interact with corticosteroids, resulting in side effects or changes in how well the drugs work.

    Do not stop taking corticosteroids suddenly. Withdrawal effects can occur, so it is very important to take the prescribed dose at the times recommended by your doctor. You will be given instructions on how to reduce (taper) your dose gradually at the end of your treatment. Have your doctor write these instructions out for you. If you have any questions about how to taper your dose, call your doctor. Tapering is usually only necessary if you use corticosteroids for a long time. It may not be necessary if you use the steroids only for short periods.

    Dexamethasone, if given too rapidly by IV, may cause temporary itching or burning in the vaginal or rectal area. This goes away after a few minutes.

    To minimize side effects of oral corticosteroids, take your pills with a full glass of liquid and a small snack.

    Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the fetus. If you are or may be pregnant, talk to your doctor before using corticosteroids. This drug can pass through your body into breast milk and should not be used while you are breast-feeding.

    Avoid sources of infection. Wash your hands frequently, and keep them away from your mouth and eyes. Your immune system may be weakened while you are taking corticosteroids.

    Steroids used to treat cancer and cancer pain are not the same as steroids used by body builders (anabolic steroids).

    Do not use alcohol or street drugs while you are taking corticosteroids. Tell your doctor if you need more pain relief.

    Monday, February 01, 2010

    Natural Pain Relief for Back Pain

    Eight out of 10 adults in America have—or will soon experience—back pain brought on by the wear and tear of living. It seems simple to pop a pill for the pain, but why not avoid the side effects by trying natural possibilities first? You can turn to natural healing practices and herbs to alleviate back pain. The Chinese medical perspective According to Chinese medicine, the skeletal structure, bones, and lower back are part of the kidney network. Kidney energy tends to diminish as we age, more rapidly with unhealthy diet, excessive strain, and youthful indiscretions such as drug and alcohol use. Weakness in the kidney network results in symptoms of lower back pain, as well as general weakness, fatigue, and other signs of premature aging. Replenishing kidney energy is a slow and difficult process; that is why it is essential to preserve kidney energy. Fortunately, through qigong exercises, herbs, proper diet and lifestyle, you can slow down its depletion and even regenerate certain aspects of kidney energy, and in the process, ease some of your back pain. Try these tips! 1. Eucommia for your aching back Eucommia is a traditional ingredient in herbal formulas for back and joint pain and helps to strengthen your bones, tendons, and ligaments. Western studies with rats have discovered that both the leaves and the bark of eucommia contain a compound that encourages the development of collagen, an important part of connective tissues like skin, tendons, and ligaments. A typical dosage is 350 mg twice a day. You can also try the traditional Chinese Arthritis/Joint formula, which includes eucommia and other herbs that support a strong back. 2. Press here for relief Lower back pain is one of the most common problems that we treat at the Tao of Wellness. We use acupuncture and bodywork to reduce pain, which has proven quite effective. Like acupuncture, acupressure is the art of acupuncture without needles, where you use your own fingers to stimulate a specific acupoint. The combination of the following two acupoints is good for strengthening the kidneys and alleviating back pain: • Find the acupoint: Forceful Torrent (Ki-3), which is in the depression between the inner anklebone and the Achilles tendon of the right foot. Apply steady pressure with your right thumb until you feel soreness. Hold for 3 minutes. Repeat on the left foot. • Find the acupoint: Supporting the Core. It's in the middle of the popliteal crease behind the knee of the right leg. Apply pressure with your right middle finger until you feel soreness. Hold for 3 minutes. Repeat on your left leg. You can also massage the parts or your back that are in pain. Tonic oil, which consists of oils of camphor, peppermint, eucalyptus, fennel, and wintergreen, can be massaged into your back for relief from minor aches and pains. For a traditional blend of tonic oil in a pure sesame oil base, click here. 3. Tasty treats for back pain Make a delicious anti-inflammatory cocktail by mixing equal parts of unsweetened black cherry juice with dark grape juice and drink 3 to 6 glasses a day until the pain has eased. Also, feature more pineapple in your diet. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps with back pain, as well as muscle and joint pain. 4. Exercise can ease your back Most back pain is caused by the wear and tear of living, which over time weakens our skeletal structure, in the form of bone loss or a displaced disk. Research conclusively shows that exercise early in life builds bone mass and strengthens the skeletal structure, helping to prevent injury down the road. The good news is that if you are advancing in age, regular exercise can slow the progress of degenerative bone disorders. Generally for a healthy back, I recommend a combination of exercises: a 30-minute daily walk, moderate weight training to strengthen muscles and bones, and tai chi or qigong to build endurance and flexibility. A good form to choose is Dao-In qigong, which is gentle on the body and great for loosening up the back. You can look for a local tai chi practitioner to teach you or learn from an instructional DVD. During acute back pain, exercise may be difficult or too painful. Until you are mobile, bed rest is the best.

    Friday, January 08, 2010

    Trigger Point Injection (TPI) for Pain Management

    Trigger point injection (TPI) may be an option in treating pain for some patients. TPI is a procedure used to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. Many times, such knots can be felt under the skin. Trigger points may irritate the nerves around them and cause referred pain, or pain that is felt in another part of the body.

    What Happens During Trigger Point Injection?

    In the TPI procedure, a health care professional inserts a small needle into the patient's trigger point. The injection contains a local anesthetic that sometimes includes a corticosteroid. With the injection, the trigger point is made inactive and the pain is alleviated. Usually, a brief course of treatment will result in sustained relief. Injections are given in a doctor's office and usually take just a few minutes. Several sites may be injected in one visit. If a patient has an allergy to a certain medication, a dry-needle technique (involving no medications) can be used.

    When Is Trigger Point Injection Used?

    TPI is used to treat many muscle groups, especially those in the arms, legs, lower back, and neck. In addition, TPI can be used to treat fibromyalgia and tension headaches. TPI also is used to alleviate myofascial pain syndrome (chronic pain involving tissue that surrounds muscle) that does not respond to other treatments. However, the effectiveness of TPI for treating myofascial pain is still under study.

    WebMD Medical Reference

    Kuliah Siklus Krebs dan Bioenergetika